Technology

Our mission is to enable the development of fusion relevant technologies, from conceptual idea to their demonstration in relevant environments, in the context of the whole power plant design and delivery community.

Capabilities  

The team is comprised of seven technical groups:

• Applied Materials Technology – experts in assessing the performance of materials needed for fusion energy, through sample characterisation, testing and simulation
• Applied Radiation Technology – world-leading expertise in radiation modelling, measurement and analysis
• Manufacturing Technology and Equipment Qualification – specialists in research and development projects that require innovative manufacturing solutions
• Power Plant Modelling and Integration – leaders in developing whole power plant modelling and integration along with multi-fidelity systems code development and exploitation
• Technology Development – offer best practice techniques for the maturation of technologies from proof-of-concept through to technology demonstration
• Thermal Hydraulics – applied research specialists in reactor cooling, heat transfer processes and experimental validation
• Magnets – specialists in the design, development and testing of superconducting magnet systems and high-field technologies for fusion applications

Services, equipment and facilities

Whether you are an academic or work in a fusion/non-fusion industry, we can support you with your research and development needs.

Services

Our services include:

• full-field imaging techniques and small-scale materials testing
• response modelling, including nuclear analysis, design and support
• design, support and detection needs for nuclear benchmarking experiments
• advance the manufacturability and qualification of new component designs
• whole plant design and integration including analysis and concept design
• develop system codes for the design and integration of fusion machines
• high heat flux testing to characterise and measure activity and effect on components
• liquid metal testing and validation to inform component designs
• assess flow-induced vibrations and fluid structure interactions with other physics
• support with building links between UKAEA, industry and supply chain
• enable regulatory compliance on thermal hydraulic analysis

We are equipped with advanced tools, labs, and facilities that support high-quality work across disciplines. This section details the infrastructure that enables our research, development, and testing activities, ensuring precision, scalability, and innovation in every project we undertake. 

Facilities, equipment and software

Research highlights

Our annual review shares the research milestones achieved within the financial year, demonstrating our collaborations with industry and academia.

This section showcases key research achievements, innovative findings, and impactful contributions made by the team. It highlights areas of focus, recent breakthroughs, and how the research aligns with industry trends or academic advancement, offering a snapshot of the value and relevance of ongoing and completed work. 

Case studies

Real-world examples that demonstrate our capabilities in action highlighting the challenge, our approach, and the outcomes achieved.